Your Recovery Contact Us
What to Do if You’re Injured in a Rideshare Accident as a Passenger
As rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have grown more common, so too have accidents involving them. When passengers are injured during a rideshare trip, the aftermath can be overwhelming, especially when it's unclear who’s responsible or what steps to take.
Knowing what to do in the minutes, hours, and weeks after a rideshare accident is key. From receiving proper medical care to filing insurance claims, each step plays an important role in preserving your health and protecting your rights.
While workers' compensation typically applies to job-related injuries, it can sometimes come into play if you're injured during work-related travel using a rideshare service.
At Slape & Howard, we help clients in Wichita and across Kansas work through the legal challenges that can arise after these incidents. Our attorneys strive to make a difference for Kansans who wouldn't receive fair compensation by going it alone.
Do This Immediately After a Rideshare Accident
Your safety is the top priority. Whether the crash was minor or serious, taking the right steps at the scene can help protect your health and strengthen any legal or insurance claims later on.
Call for medical help and check for injuries
Even if you don’t feel immediate pain, get evaluated by a medical professional. Some injuries—such as whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions—don’t show symptoms right away.
Get emergency medical help: Call 911 if there are any signs of injury.
Ask for a medical evaluation: Let the paramedics check you, even if you think you're okay.
Getting cleared by these medical professionals is critical.
Document the accident scene
Photos and witness information can become vital if you need to file a claim or lawsuit later.
Take photos of the scene: Include all vehicles, license plates, traffic signals, and road conditions.
Get driver and witness contact details: Collect names, phone numbers, and insurance information from the rideshare driver and others involved.
Taking these steps will only serve to help you down the road.
Notify the rideshare company
Most apps have a feature for reporting accidents. Filing an in-app report creates a record that may be used later by insurers or legal counsel.
After your immediate medical needs are addressed and you’ve documented the scene, it's time to start thinking about legal and financial recovery. That’s where understanding insurance layers and liability becomes important.
Liability in Rideshare Accidents
Unlike standard car crashes, rideshare accidents involve multiple parties and insurance layers. As a passenger, you’re not at fault—but figuring out who’s responsible for covering your injuries may take some work.
Who may be responsible
Several parties might be held responsible, depending on what caused the crash:
The rideshare driver: If they were distracted, speeding, or ran a red light, they may be liable.
Another driver: If a third-party driver caused the accident, their insurance could be the primary option.
The rideshare company: Uber and Lyft offer insurance coverage for their drivers while they’re “on the clock,” but how much depends on what stage of the ride you were in.
If your injury happened while on a rideshare trip for work purposes—such as traveling between job sites or attending a work meeting—then workers compensation may be an option in addition to other insurance claims.
Insurance Coverage Available for Rideshare Accidents
Uber and Lyft both offer third-party liability insurance, with coverage varying based on whether the driver is waiting for a ride request, heading to a pickup, or transporting a passenger.
When you're riding as a passenger
Once you’re in the vehicle and the ride is active, the rideshare company’s full policy is usually in effect. This coverage includes:
Up to $1 million in liability coverage: Covers injuries caused by the rideshare driver or another driver.
Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage: Protects you if the at-fault driver has no insurance or inadequate coverage.
Securing this type of coverage is important even though you may never have to use it.
When workers compensation overlaps
If your employer required you to use a rideshare for work, your accident might qualify under workers compensation laws. This could provide additional benefits such as:
Medical expense coverage: For hospital bills, therapy, or surgery.
Lost wage replacement: If the injury keeps you from working.
Permanent disability benefits: If the injury leads to long-term limitations.
While most passengers will rely on auto insurance for coverage, workers compensation can be an additional layer of support when the trip was job-related. Moving forward, collecting evidence and maintaining a clear record will be important, especially if there are overlapping claims.
Types of Injuries Passengers May Suffer
Even though you weren’t behind the wheel, your body still absorbs the impact. Car accidents can lead to injuries that require weeks or months of treatment, and sometimes permanent care.
Common injuries in rideshare collisions
Whiplash and neck injuries: Caused by the head snapping forward or backward during impact.
Back and spinal injuries: These may include herniated discs or nerve compression.
Broken bones: Arms, ribs, and facial bones are often injured when passengers hit interior surfaces.
Concussions or traumatic brain injuries: Even mild head trauma should be evaluated by a doctor.
Cuts and bruises: These may seem minor, but could lead to scarring or infection.
These injuries often result in medical bills, missed work, and ongoing physical therapy. If your injuries are job-related, they may also qualify for workers compensation benefits depending on the circumstances.
Steps to Take After Receiving Medical Treatment
After you've received care for your injuries, your focus will shift to documentation, communication with insurers, and possibly filing a legal claim. Taking the right steps now helps protect your right to compensation later.
Gather and organize important records
Keeping track of medical and accident-related documents will support your claim, whether through insurance or workers compensation.
Medical records and bills: These show the extent of your injuries and the costs of treatment.
Photos of injuries: Document your healing process over time.
Receipts and wage statements: Track any out-of-pocket costs and lost income.
Even though it takes time to collect these records, the time you spend will pay off in the long run.
File insurance claims promptly
Submit claims with the appropriate insurance provider as soon as possible. Rideshare companies usually provide contact information or direct links to third-party insurers.
If your trip was work-related, notify your employer promptly so they can begin the workers compensation process. Each state has filing deadlines, and delays can complicate the claim.
Monitor symptoms over time
Some symptoms don’t appear until days or weeks after the crash. Stay in contact with your doctor and report any new issues promptly. These updates can affect the outcome of your legal or insurance case.
As you gather these documents and interact with insurers, it’s a good idea to consider speaking with a lawyer, especially when fault is disputed or multiple policies are involved.
When to Involve a Lawyer
Rideshare accidents aren’t always straightforward. Liability disputes, conflicting insurance coverages, and denied claims can make the process harder to manage. Legal support can be especially helpful if:
You have long-term or permanent injuries
Multiple parties were involved, and the fault isn’t clear
You were injured during work travel and may qualify for workers compensation
The rideshare company or insurer isn’t responding
A lawyer can help you identify all potential sources of coverage—whether that’s a personal injury claim, third-party liability, or workers compensation. These aren’t mutually exclusive, and it’s possible to pursue more than one type of claim depending on your situation.
How Workers Compensation Applies to Rideshare Passengers
Though often associated with factory work or manual labor, workers compensation can apply in rideshare cases when a worker is traveling for job duties. If your employer directed you to use a rideshare for a business-related reason, your injuries may qualify under Kansas workers compensation laws.
Factors that affect eligibility
Whether the trip was required by your employer: Commuting to and from work typically isn’t covered, but traveling for a work assignment usually is.
Time and location of the accident: If the crash occurred during standard work hours or within the scope of your job duties, you may have a valid claim.
Employer knowledge: If your employer knew you were using a rideshare for business travel, it strengthens your case.
If your situation meets these factors, workers compensation benefits may be available even if you’re also pursuing a personal injury claim through the rideshare company’s insurance.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls After a Rideshare Injury
After any crash, it’s easy to make decisions that could impact your recovery or claim. Being aware of a few common mistakes can help protect your rights.
Failing to seek immediate medical care: Waiting too long can worsen injuries and make it harder to prove your case.
Giving a recorded statement without legal guidance: Insurance adjusters may use your words against you.
Accepting a quick settlement: Early offers may not account for long-term medical needs or lost income.
Not reporting the accident to all relevant parties: This includes the rideshare company, insurers, and your employer if workers' compensation may apply.
By avoiding these issues, you’ll be in a stronger position to recover both physically and financially.
Contact Us Today
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident as a passenger, Slape & Howard is here to help. Whether you're dealing with insurance issues or considering a workers compensation claim, our firm can walk you through your options. We serve Wichita and all of Kansas.. Let us help you move forward with clarity and confidence. Call now to schedule a consultation.